Direct Coupling Compatible Sprinkler

ABSTRACT

A combination fire suppression sprinkler and coupling is provided in a pre-assembled state for rapid installation into a piping network. Coupling segments are pivotably hinged and an adjustable attachment assembly opposite the hinge secures the segments to one another. In the pre-assembled state the segments are held at a separation angle sufficient to permit insertion of a pipe element into the coupling without disassembling the coupling.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/448,105, filed Jan. 19, 2017 and to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/520,668, filed Jun. 16, 2017, both applications beinghereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to sprinklers for fire suppression and couplingsfor connecting sprinklers to piping networks.

BACKGROUND

Attachment of sprinklers to pipe elements of a fire suppression systemis time consuming and must be executed with care to ensure that: 1) afluid tight joint is effected, 2) the relatively delicate sprinkler isin operating condition after it is installed, and 3) that certainregulatory requirements, such as rotational orientation, are met.Traditional sprinklers have a body with a nipple that has male threadswhich engage the female threads of an adapter fitting connected to thepipe element, usually also a threaded or welded attachment. Thesesprinklers generally also have a frame, or frame arms, extending fromthe body in a direction opposite the nipple. The frame or frame armssupport a deflector that acts to appropriately distribute and disbursethe fluid which is discharged by the sprinkler through a bore whichextends through the body. These sprinklers are commonly oriented in anyof an upright, pendent, or sidewall configurations. These configurationsare distinguished by the direction of the axis of the bore of thesprinkler, and thus of the direction of the water discharged from theorifice at the end of the bore before it impinges upon the deflector,examples of those directions being vertically upwards, verticallydownwards, and horizontally for the upright, pendent, and sidewallsprinklers, respectively. Further, the installation of certain types ofsprinklers may require, for regulatory or functional reasons, that theybe installed in a certain rotational orientation about their axis andrelative to the space to be protected by the sprinkler. This rotationalorientation requirement is different from the pendent, upright, orsidewall orientation of the sprinkler body (and thus of the axis), butrefers to the rotational orientation of the sprinkler body about itsaxis, which affects the location of the frame, frame arms or thedeflector. For instance, sidewall-type sprinklers typically have adeflector which is asymmetrical about the sprinkler's axis, and thatacts to preferentially deflect the discharged fluid downwards and out ofthe sprinkler, while limiting the fluid from that is deflected upwards.The rotational alignment of such a deflector about the horizontal axisof the sprinkler body is critical to ensure adequate protection of thespace where the sprinkler is installed. Additionally, certainregulations, including those promulgated by the National Fire ProtectionAgency (NFPA) require certain orientations for various types ofsprinklers to ensure the desired and necessary performance.

Attachment of a traditional sprinkler to their adapter fittings requiresthat the technician ensure that each threaded joint is sealed and thatthe sprinkler is not damaged when handled or when torque is applied toseat the sprinkler during installation. The threaded joints forattaching sprinklers are commonly of the tapered thread type, which havea built-in interference which causes the threads to create a seal whenthey are sufficiently tightened. However, this seal can be compromisedin many ways, including by damage to the threads, incomplete tightening,corrosion, or other forms of contamination of the mating surfaces. Thisattachment is further complicated by the rotational orientationrequirement, where an installer not only has to ensure adequatetightness, but also the appropriate rotational orientation, which maymean tightening the sprinkler up to one full rotation more or less thanmight otherwise be desired. As these tapered threads require increasingtorque with rotation, it may not be possible to achieve the appropriateorientation with additional tightening, causing the installer to ‘backoff’ the sprinkler to a looser condition with the correct orientation,or risk damaging the sprinkler by overtightening it. In an attempt tomitigate any of the above conditions and promote more consistentattachment of sprinklers, installers will often use a thread sealant,such as pipe joint compound, or thread sealing tapes, to help promote aseal under less than ideal conditions; however, thread sealant or tapemay exacerbate leakage issues where sprinklers are tightened andloosened repeatedly while trying to achieve the appropriate orientation.Use of sealants and tapes add time and expense to the installationprocess. Further, excess tape or compound may prevent the sprinkler frombeing threaded into the adapter fitting to the appropriate depthnecessary for safe operation.

As the required leak-tight nature of sprinklers relies on interferenceinherent in tapered thread connections, combined with sealants and tapeswhen used, tightening often requires significant torque, especially asfor sprinklers having large orifices, and, consequently larger bodies,such as those that are connected with ¾″ or 1″ National Pipe Thread orBritish Standard Pipe size threads. The need to apply significant torquein the vicinity of the sprinkler's delicate components, such as thedeflector and, in automatic-type sprinklers, the fusible element thattriggers the sprinkler (commonly a solder link or glass bulb), heightensthe risk of damage to these components during assembly. Attempts tomitigate this risk include specialized wrenches and regulations thatrequire covers, commonly called bulb protectors, be installed over themost delicate sprinkler components in order to shield them duringinstallation. Example covers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,273,189,hereby incorporated by reference.

There is clearly an opportunity to improve the installation ofsprinklers by reducing the time required for installation, reducing thenumber of parts to be handled, reducing the likelihood of damage to thesprinkler, promoting more consistent sealing, and more easily achievingthe required rotational orientation.

SUMMARY

The invention concerns a sprinkler. In one example embodiment thesprinkler comprises a body defining a bore having an inlet and an outletoppositely disposed. A first arm extends from the body adjacent to theoutlet. The first arm has an end positioned in spaced relation to theoutlet. A closing member sealingly engages the outlet. A trigger ispositioned between the end of the first arm and the closing member. Thetrigger permits opening of the closing member. A groove surrounds thebody. The groove is positioned in the body between the inlet and theoutlet.

By way of example, the sprinkler may further comprise a projectionprojecting outwardly from the body. The projection is positioned betweenthe groove and the outlet. In a specific example, the projectioncomprises a ring extending around the body. Further by way of example, aportion of the body comprises a cylindrical surface, and the groove andthe ring extend circumferentially around the surface.

Another example embodiment comprises a second arm extending from thebody adjacent to the outlet. The first and second arms meet to form anapex in spaced relation to the outlet. The trigger is positioned betweenthe apex and the closing member. The trigger is heat sensitive andpermits opening of the closing member in response to a specifiedtemperature. In one example embodiment, the trigger comprises afrangible bulb. In another example embodiment, the trigger comprises asolder link.

The invention also encompasses, in combination, a sprinkler and acoupling in a pre-assembled state for joining the sprinkler to a pipeelement. In one example embodiment the coupling comprises first andsecond segments arranged end to end surrounding a central space. Each ofthe segments has a first end and a second end. An adjustable attachmentassembly connects the segments to one another at a separation sufficientto permit insertion of the pipe element into the central space. Firstand second arcuate surfaces are positioned on opposite sides of thesegments and project toward an axis extending through the central space.An annular seal is located within the central space. The annular sealcomprises first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of theseal and extending toward the axis.

Further by way of example the sprinkler comprises a body located atleast partially within the central space. The body comprises a boresurrounding the axis. The bore has an inlet and an outlet oppositelydisposed. A groove extends around the body and is positioned between theinlet and the outlet. At least a portion of the first arcuate surfaceson one side of the segments engages the groove and retains the sprinklerto the coupling in the pre-assembled state.

An example embodiment further comprises a hinge pivotably connecting thefirst ends of each of the segments to one another. Further by way ofexample, the adjustable attachment assembly connects the second ends ofeach of the segments to one another at a separation angle sufficient topermit insertion of the pipe element into the central space. In anexample embodiment, the annular seal has an outer surface sized tosupport the segments at the separation when the coupling is in thepre-assembled state. Also by way of example, the seal may be compressedbetween the segments at the separation.

In one example embodiment, the first arcuate surfaces have a smallerradius of curvature than the second arcuate surfaces. In another exampleembodiment, the first arcuate surfaces have a radius of curvature equalto a radius of curvature of the second arcuate surfaces.

By way of example, at least one of the arcuate surfaces comprises atleast one tooth projecting toward the axis. An example embodimentfurther comprises at least one relief cutout in one of the arcuatesurfaces. The at least one relief cutout is positioned proximate to anend of one of the segments and facing the central space.

By way of example, the hinge comprises a stirrup extending from thefirst end of the first segment. A tongue extends from the first end ofthe second segment. The tongue engages the stirrup and pivotablyattaches the first and second segments to one another.

In a further example the attachment assembly comprises a first lugextending from the second end of the first segment. A second lug extendsfrom the second end of the second segment. The first and second lugs arein facing relation with one another. A fastener extends between thefirst and second lugs for adjustably connecting the segments to oneanother.

Also by way of example, a projection projects outwardly from the body.The projection is positioned between the groove and the outlet. Inspecific example embodiment, the projection comprises a ring extendingaround the body. In a further example, a portion of the body comprises acylindrical surface. The groove and the ring extend circumferentiallyaround the surface.

An example embodiment may further comprise a first arm extending fromthe body adjacent to the outlet. The first arm has an end positioned inspaced relation to the outlet. A closing member sealingly engages theoutlet. A trigger is positioned between the end of the first arm and theclosing member. The trigger permits opening of the closing member.

An example embodiment may further comprise a second arm extending fromthe body adjacent to the outlet. The first and second arms meet to forman apex in spaced relation to the outlet. The trigger is positionedbetween the apex and the closing member. The trigger is heat sensitiveand permits opening of the closing member in response to a specifiedtemperature. In one example embodiment the trigger comprises a frangiblebulb. In another example embodiment the trigger comprises a solder link.

The invention also encompasses a method of preparing a combinationsprinkler and coupling in a pre-assembled state. In one exampleembodiment the method comprises:

-   -   attaching the first ends of the first and second segments to one        another;    -   positioning the annular seal between the first and second        segments;    -   inserting the body into engagement with the first lobe;    -   attaching the second ends of the segments to one another; and    -   positioning the segments at the separation.

An example may further comprise:

-   -   using a hinge to attach the first ends of the first and second        segments; and    -   positioning the segments at a separation angle.

An example method may further comprise compressing the annular sealbetween the segments.

The invention also encompasses a method of using the combinationsprinkler and coupling. By way of example, the method may comprise:

-   -   inserting the pipe element into the central space opposite to        the body;    -   engaging the pipe element with the second lobe;    -   adjustably tightening the attachment assembly, thereby drawing        the segments toward one another and engaging the first arcuate        surfaces with the body and the second arcuate surfaces with the        pipe element.

An example method may further comprise engaging the second arcuatesurfaces with a circumferential groove on the pipe element.

The invention also encompasses, in combination, a sprinkler and acoupling in a pre-assembled state for joining the sprinkler to a pipeelement. In an example embodiment the coupling comprises first andsecond segments arranged end to end surrounding a central space. Each ofthe segments has a first end and a second end. An adjustable attachmentassembly connects the second ends of each of the segments to one anotherat a separation sufficient to permit insertion of the pipe element intothe central space. First and second arcuate surfaces are positioned onopposite sides of the segments and project toward an axis extendingthrough the central space. An annular seal located within the centralspace. The annular seal comprises first and second lobes positioned onopposite sides of the seal and extend toward the axis.

By way of example the sprinkler may comprise a body located at leastpartially within the central space. The body comprises a boresurrounding the axis. The bore has an inlet and an outlet oppositelydisposed. The lobe engages and retains the body within the central spacein the pre-assembled state. The separation is sufficient to permitinsertion of the pipe element into the central space.

An example embodiment further comprises a hinge pivotably connecting thefirst ends of each of the segments to one another. Further by way ofexample, the adjustable attachment assembly connects the second ends ofeach of the segments to one another at a separation angle sufficient topermit insertion of the pipe element into the central space.

In an example embodiment, the annular seal has an outer surface sized tosupport the segments at the separation when the coupling is in thepre-assembled state. In a further example, the seal is compressedbetween the segments at the separation.

In one example embodiment, the first arcuate surfaces have a smallerradius of curvature than the second arcuate surfaces. In another exampleembodiment, the first arcuate surfaces have a radius of curvature equalto a radius of curvature of the second arcuate surfaces.

By way of example, at least one of the arcuate surfaces comprises atleast one tooth projecting toward the axis. An example embodiment mayfurther comprise at least one relief cutout in one of the arcuatesurfaces. The at least one relief cutout is positioned proximate to anend of one of the segments and facing the central space.

In an example embodiment the hinge comprises a stirrup extending fromthe first end of the first segment. A tongue extends from the first endof the second segment. The tongue engages the stirrup and pivotablyattaches the first and second segments to one another.

By way of example, the attachment assembly comprises a first lugextending from the second end of the first segment. A second lug extendsfrom the second end of the second segment. The first and second lugs arein facing relation with one another. A fastener extends between thefirst and second lugs for adjustably connecting the segments to oneanother.

Another example embodiment comprises a groove extending around the bodyand positioned between the inlet and the outlet. The first arcuatesurfaces are engageable with the groove. A further example embodimentcomprises a projection projecting outwardly from the body. Theprojection is positioned between the groove and the outlet. By way ofexample, the projection comprises a ring extending around the body.Further by way of example, a portion of the body comprises a cylindricalsurface. The groove and the ring extend circumferentially around thesurface.

An example combination may further comprise a first arm extending fromthe body adjacent to the outlet. The first arm has an end positioned inspaced relation to the outlet. A closing member sealingly engages theoutlet. A trigger is positioned between the end of the first arm and theclosing member. The trigger permits opening of the closing member.

Further by way of example, a combination may comprise a second armextending from the body adjacent to the outlet. The first and secondarms meet to form an apex in spaced relation to the outlet. The triggeris positioned between the apex and the closing member. The trigger isheat sensitive and permits opening of the closing member in response toa specified temperature. In one example embodiment, the triggercomprises a frangible bulb. In another example embodiment, the triggercomprises a solder link.

The invention also encompasses a method of preparing a combinationsprinkler and coupling in a pre-assembled state. By way of example, themethod comprises:

-   -   attaching the first ends of the first and second segments to one        another;    -   positioning the annular seal between the first and second        segments;    -   inserting the body into engagement with the first lobe;    -   attaching the second ends of the segments to one another; and    -   positioning the segments at the separation.

An example method may further comprise:

-   -   using a hinge to attach the first ends of the first and second        segments; and    -   positioning the segments at a separation angle.

Also by way of example the method may further comprise compressing theannular seal between the segments.

The invention also encompasses a method of using the combinationsprinkler and coupling. In one example embodiment, the method comprises:

-   -   inserting the pipe element into the central space opposite to        the body;    -   adjustably tightening the attachment assembly, thereby drawing        the segments toward one another and engaging the first arcuate        surfaces with the body and the second arcuate surfaces with the        pipe element.

An example embodiment may further comprise engaging the second arcuatesurfaces with a circumferential groove on the pipe element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an example combination sprinkler and couplingaccording to the invention;

FIGS. 2 and 2A are isometric views of example sprinklers according tothe invention;

FIG. 3 is an exploded isometric view of the sprinkler shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an example coupling according to theinvention;

FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 are longitudinal sectional views illustratingconnection of a combination sprinkler and coupling to a pipe elementaccording to the invention;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of an example embodiment of a combinationsprinkler and coupling according to the invention; and

FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 are longitudinal sectional views illustratingconnection of a combination sprinkler and coupling to a pipe elementaccording to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows an example embodiment of a combination sprinkler andcoupling 10 according to the invention. Combination 10 comprises asprinkler 12 connected to a coupling 14 in a “pre-assembled state” as auser would preferably receive the combination 10 from the factory ordistributor. The combination allows the sprinkler 12 to be rapidly andsecurely connected to a pipe element of a piping network of a firesuppression system (see FIGS. 5 and 6) as explained below.

Sprinkler 12 is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 and comprises a body 16 defininga bore 18. Body 16 defines an inlet 20 to the bore 18 and an outlet 22.As shown in FIG. 3 a closing member 24 sealingly engages the outlet 22.In the example sprinkler 12 the closing member 24 comprises a disk 26.Disk 26 is maintained in sealing relationship with outlet 22 by atrigger 28. In the example shown the trigger is a heat sensitive triggercomprising a frangible glass bulb 30 filled with a heat sensitive liquidwhich expands when subjected to heat and breaks the bulb at a specifiedtemperature to allow disk 26 to disengage from outlet 22, opening theoutlet to permit water or other fire suppressing liquid to be dischargedfrom the sprinkler. Other types of heat sensitive triggers, comprising,for example, a solder link 32 (shown in FIG. 2A), which melts at aspecified temperature, are also feasible. Such triggers are disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 7,584,803, which patent is hereby incorporated byreference. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), sprinkler 12 is ofthe “open” type where no trigger 28 or closing member 24 is present toseal outlet 22, flow through the combination sprinkler and coupling 10being controlled by a remote valve.

Glass bulb 30 (or solder link 32) is supported in engagement with disk26 by at least a first arm 34, but more commonly, first and second arms34, 36, which extend from body 16 adjacent to the outlet 22. Trigger 28is positioned between the end of the first arm 34 and the closing member24, or between the closing member and an apex 38 formed where first andsecond arms 34, 36 meet. Apex 38 is positioned in spaced relation to theoutlet 22. In the example shown the arms 34, 36 are attached to a sleeve40 positioned at the apex 38. Sleeve 40 has a threaded bore 42 whichreceives a set screw 44. Adjustment of set screw 44 controls the degreeof compression of the glass bulb 30 (or the solder link 32) against thedisk 26.

Body 16 also defines a circumferential groove 46 positioned between theinlet 20 and the outlet 22. Groove 46 is circumferential to bore 18 andsized and positioned to receive projecting arcuate surfaces or “keys”for connecting the sprinkler 12 to the coupling 14 as described below. Aprojection 48, in this example comprising a ring 50, extends around body16 and projects outwardly therefrom adjacent to groove 46. Ring 50 actsas a “stop” to ensure proper location of the coupling's keys relative togroove 46, and to assist in the mounting of the combination sprinklerand coupling to a pipe element (described below). In the examplesprinkler 12, body 16 comprises a cylindrical surface 52 and the groove46 and ring 50 extend circumferentially around the cylindrical surface.In another example embodiment, shown in FIG. 2A, the ring 50 comprises ashoulder 53 having a larger radius than the remainder of the cylindricalsurface 52.

Coupling 14 is shown in FIG. 4 and comprises a plurality of segments, inthis example first and second segments 54 and 56 arranged end to endsurrounding a central space 58. As described below, the central space 58receives the sprinkler 12 and a pipe element of a piping network of afire suppression system. Each segment 54 and 56 has a first end (54 a,56 a) and a second end (54 b, 56 b). A hinge 60 pivotably connects thefirst ends 54 a and 56 a of the segments 54 and 56 to one another. Inthis example, hinge 60 comprises a tongue 62 which projects from thefirst end 54 a of the first segment 54 and engages a stirrup 64projecting from the first end 56 a of the second segment 56. Engagementof the tongue 62 and stirrup 64 permits pivoting motion of the segments54 and 56 relative to one another while also connecting the first endsof the segments 54 a and 56 a to one another through positive mechanicalengagement. Other forms of hinge are of course feasible. Hinge 60permits the segments 54 and 56 to have a separation, which, in theexamples shown herein, is represented by a variable separation angle 66,as described below.

An adjustable attachment assembly 68 is positioned at the second ends 54b and 56 b of segments 54 and 56. In the example embodiment shown, theattachment assembly 68 comprises a first lug 70 extending from thesecond end 54 b of the first segment 54, and a second lug 72 extendingfrom the second end 56 b of the second segment 56. Lugs 70 and 72 definerespective through holes 74 which receive an adjustable fastener 76, forexample bolt 78 and nut 80. Tightening of the fastener 76 draws thesegments 54 and 56 toward one another, the segments pivoting about hinge60 and establishing the separation angle 66 as described below.

FIG. 4 also shows the arcuate surfaces or keys 82 and 84. Keys 82 and 84are positioned on opposite sides of each segment 54 and 56 and projecttoward an axis 86 which passes coaxially through the central space 58.As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, keys 82 of segments 54 and 56 (54 shown) aresized to engage the circumferential groove 46 in body 16; keys 84 aresized to engage a circumferential groove 88 in a pipe element 90. In theembodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the body 16 has a smaller radius thanthe pipe element 90. Consequently, to engage with the groove 46 in thebody 16, keys 82 have a smaller radius of curvature than keys 84, whichhave a larger radius of curvature designed to engage a groove 88 in thepipe element 90. In some embodiments, shown for example as combination108 in FIGS. 8-11, the body 16 of sprinkler 12 has a radius that is theequal or similar to the diameter of the pipe element 90, and the keys82, 84 on opposite sides of the segments may be of equal or similarradius of curvature to one another. Pipe element 90 may, for example, bepart of a piping network for a fire suppression system (not shown). Asshown in FIG. 4, keys 82 and 84 may also have at least one tooth 92extending toward the axis 86. Tooth or teeth 92 are sized to slightlyinterfere with body 16 within groove 46 (in the case of keys 82), orwith pipe element 90 within the groove 88 (in the case of keys 84),providing additional rigidity and torsional resistance to the assembly.One or more teeth 92 positioned proximate to the hinge 60 also permits alarger separation angle 66 while still engaging and retaining thesprinkler 12 in the central space 58. Keys 82 and 84 may further haverelief cutouts 94 positioned upon and projecting along a portion of eachof keys 82 and 84 proximate to their ends. Relief cutouts 94 reduce theseparation angle 66 subtended by the segments 54 and 56 required for apipe element 90 or a sprinkler body 16 to be inserted into the centralspace 58. Relief cutouts 94 may project along a greater proportion ofkeys 82 and 84 proximate to hinge 60, where segments 54 and 56 arecloser together (by virtue of separation angle 66) than they project onkeys 82 and 84 proximate to adjustable fastener 74, where segments 54and 56 are further apart. In embodiments where the keys on oppositesides of the segments have equal or similar radii of curvature, reliefcutouts 94 may project along the same proportion of each of the keys. Inthe embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, where keys 82 and 84 are of differentradii of curvature, relief cutouts 94 may project along a greaterproportion of one of the keys 82 than the other key 84 (shown).

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, an annular seal 96 is located within thecentral space 58. Seal 96 is formed of a flexible, resilient material,for example, an elastomer such as EPDM and has an outer surface 98 sizedto support segments 54 and 56 at a desired separation angle 66. For theexample combination 10 of sprinkler 12 and coupling 14 shown in FIGS. 1and 5, the desired separation angle 66 is such that the coupling 14retains the sprinkler 12 by at least partial engagement between thecoupling keys 82 and the groove 46 in the body 16 while allowingsufficient separation of the keys 84 (on the opposite side of thesegments) to permit insertion of the pipe element 90 into the centralspace 58 (see FIG. 6). For this embodiment, the combination sprinklerand coupling 10 is said to be in the “pre-assembled” state, whichpermits the combination 10 to be easily installed into a piping networkby inserting the pipe element into the central space and tightening thefastener as described below. For the combination sprinkler and coupling108 shown in FIG. 8-11, where the body 16 and the pipe element 90 haveequal or close radii, the desired separation angle 66 is one which willallow insertion of both the sprinkler 12 and the pipe element into thecentral space 58.

Annular seal 96 further comprises first and second lobes 100 and 102positioned on opposite sides of the seal (see FIG. 5). Lobes 100 and 102extend toward axis 86 and each has a respective conical surface 104 and106. Conical surface 104 is sized to receive and sealingly engage thebody 16 and conical surface 106 is sized to receive and sealingly engagethe pipe element 90. In the embodiment shown the lobes form glands whichuse the internal pressure within the coupling 14 to enhance the sealingeffect between the seal 96 and the body 16 and the pipe element 90.Lobes 100 and 102 may further be sized so that they compressively gripand retain the sprinkler 12 to the coupling 14 and/or the coupling tothe pipe element 90 upon insertion of these elements into the centralspace 58 and before the adjustable attachment assembly 68 is tightened.The compressive gripping by the lobes 100 and 102 is due to the elastic,resilient, and frictional nature of the seal 96 and aids in theformation of the sprinkler and coupling into the pre-assembled state aswell as aiding in the installation of the combination sprinkler andcoupling into a piping network.

Annular seal 96 may also comprise a tongue 97, projecting radiallyinwardly toward axis 86. Tongue 97 may serve as a stop which aids in thelocation of sprinkler 12 within the coupling 14, or in the installationof combination sprinkler and coupling 10 over pipe element 90, wheretongue 97 serves as a stop to aid the proper location of combinationsprinkler and coupling 10 relative to groove 88 of the pipe element 90.In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, where body 16 has a smaller radiusthan that of pipe element 90, tongue 97 may only project radiallyinwards far enough to serve as an aid to the location of pipe element 90relative to combination sprinkler and coupling 10. In the embodimentshown in FIGS. 9 and 10, where body 16 has the same or a similar radiusas pipe element 90, tongue 97 may serve as an aid to the location ofboth sprinkler 12 and pipe element 90 within coupling 14. Further, inthis embodiment, tongue 97 serves to help prevent sprinkler 12 frombeing dislodged from the combination sprinkler and coupling 10 duringthe installation process, when tongue 97 serves as a stop that controlsthe extent to which the combination sprinkler and coupling may be placedover pipe element 90 (as discussed below).

A method of preparing a combination sprinkler 12 and coupling 14 in apre-assembled state (see FIGS. 1 and 4) includes attaching the firstends 54 a and 56 a of the first and second segments 54 and 56 to oneanother using the hinge 60. The annular seal 96 is positioned betweenthe first and second segments 54 and 56. Body 16 is inserted intoengagement with lobe 100, engaging its surface 104 where it iscompressively retained. The second ends 54 b and 56 b of segments 54 and56 are attached to one another using the adjustable attachment assembly68. Attachment assembly is then adjusted, for example by tightening thefastener 76 extending between the lugs 70 and 72, to a desiredseparation angle 66. In the example combination 10 shown in FIGS. 1, 4and 5, where the radius of body 16 is smaller than the radius of thepipe element 90, the desired separation angle 66 is such that at least aportion of the keys 82 (for example a tooth or teeth 92) engage thegroove 46 in body 16 to retain the sprinkler 12 to the coupling 14 whilestill permitting sufficient separation between the segments 54 and 56 toallow the pipe element 90 to be inserted into the central space 58without disassembling the combination sprinkler and coupling. In theexample combination 108 shown in FIG. 8-11 where the radii of the body16 and the pipe element 90 are equal or similar in size, the desiredseparation angle 66 is set to permit insertion of both the body 16 andthe pipe element 90 into the central space, retention of the sprinkler12 to the coupling 14 in the pre-assembled state depending on thecompressive grip of the lobe 100. In either embodiment, the outersurface 98 of the seal 96 is sized so that fastener 76 may be tightenedto compress the seal between the segments 54 and 56 so that the segmentsdo not pivot loosely about hinge 60 during shipping and handling, whichmight result in the dislodgement of body 16.

Installation of the combination sprinkler and coupling 10 is describedwith reference to FIGS. 1, 5 and 6. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, thecombination 10 is provided in its pre-assembled state. In this state,the segments 54 and 56 are pivoted toward the central space 58 and heldin position by fastener 76 to the degree that keys 82 on one side ofsegments 54 and 56 are in close juxtaposition with the groove 46 on thebody 16, while at the same time providing sufficient separation betweenkeys 84 on the opposite sides of segments 54 and 56 to permit insertionof pipe element 90 into the central space 58 without adjusting theseparation angle 66 of the segments. Keys 84, or a tooth 92 maypartially engage groove 46 in this example combination 10. The segments54 and 56 are supported in the pivoted, spaced apart relation by theannular seal 96 positioned between the segments. The outer surface 98 ofthe seal 96 engages and supports the segments 54 and 56 and the seal 96acts as a spring, biasing the segments outwardly away from the centralspace 58 against the closing force applied by the fastener 76 when it istightened. The segments 54 and 56 may also be supported by otherarrangements, for example, by one or more spring elements extendingbetween the lugs 70 and 72 (not shown). The first lobe 100 projectingtoward the axis 86 grips the body 16 with sufficient force to preventthe sprinkler 12 from being easily withdrawn from the coupling 14, andring 50, projecting radially outward from body 16, prevents body 16 frombeing inserted too deeply into coupling 14. Lobe 100 and ring 50 thuscooperate with the close juxtaposition of keys 82 with groove 46 toprevent twisting or bending forces from separating the sprinkler fromthe coupling 14 or locating it to deeply within coupling 14.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, with the keys 82 of the segments 54 and 56(54 shown) in close juxtaposition with groove 46 in the body 16, thecombination sprinkler and coupling 10 is grasped by the user and axiallyplaced over pipe element 90, which enters the central space 58. As theuser is likely to grasp the combination sprinkler and coupling and applythe necessary force to some extent through the sprinkler 12 (or to abulb protector, if so equipped), ring 50 acts as a stop and ensures thatthe sprinkler 12 remains appropriately located within coupling 14 sothat key 82 is aligned with groove 46. Ring 50 also allows the insertionforce caused by interaction between the second lobe 102 and the pipeelement 90 to be transferred from the sprinkler 12, through coupling 14,in order to push the combination sprinkler and coupling over pipeelement 90 until it is appropriately located with key 84 aligned withgroove 88 and pipe element engaged with the second lobe 102 of seal 96.Engagement of tongue 97 with pipe element 90 acts as a stop for thelocation of pipe element 90, the resistance of which serves to providetactile feedback to the user that the combination sprinkler and couplingis appropriately located relative to pipe element 90 such that keys 84are appropriately positioned relative to groove 88. Insertion is shownat FIG. 6 where the pipe element 90 clears the keys 84 and engages theseal 96. Fastener 76 (in this example, bolt 78 and nut 80, see FIG. 4)is then tightened to pivot the segments 54 and 56 about hinge 60 tofully engage keys 82 with groove 46 in body 16 and keys 84 with groove88 in pipe element 90 as shown in FIG. 7. In embodiments whereprojections such as teeth 92 are located on keys 82 and/or 84,tightening of fastener 76 also drives those projections into the body 16and the pipe element 90 within their respective grooves. As the segments54 and 56 pivot, seal 96 is compressed between the segments and the body16 and the pipe element 90 to form a fluid tight connection between thecombination 10 and the pipe element 90. Appropriate rotationalorientation of the combination sprinkler and coupling may be achieved byorienting the sprinkler and coupling 10 before insertion of the pipeelement 90, or, it may be achieved and/or adjusted after insertion ofpipe element 90 but prior to fully tightening fastener 76.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrate installation of the pre-assembled combination 108(see FIG. 8) wherein the body 16 and the pipe element 90 have equal orsimilar radii. With the segments 54 and 56 in spaced relation sufficientto permit insertion into the central space 58 of both the body 16 andthe pipe element 90, the combination sprinkler and coupling 108 isgrasped by the user and axially placed over pipe element 90, whichenters the central space 58. As the user is likely to grasp thecombination sprinkler and coupling 108 and apply the necessary force tosome extent through the sprinkler 12 (or to a bulb protector, if soequipped), shoulder 53 acts as a stop and ensures that the sprinkler 12remains appropriately located within coupling 14 so that key 82 isaligned with groove 46. Shoulder 53 also allows the insertion forcecaused by interaction between the second lobe 102 and the pipe element90 to be transferred from the sprinkler 12, through coupling 14, inorder to push the combination sprinkler and coupling over pipe element90 until it is appropriately located with key 84 aligned with groove 88and pipe element engaged with the second lobe 102 of seal 96. Engagementof tongue 97 with pipe element 90 acts as a stop for the location ofpipe element 90, the resistance of which serves to provide tactilefeedback to the user that the combination sprinkler and coupling isappropriately located relative to pipe element 90 such that keys 84 areappropriately positioned relative to groove 88. In this embodiment,where body 16 and pipe element 90 have equal or similar radii, tongue 97also serves to prevent pipe element 90 from passing through coupling 14and possibly dislodging sprinkler 12. Insertion is shown at FIG. 10where the pipe element 90 clears the keys 84 and engages the seal 96.Fastener 76 (in this example, bolt 78 and nut 80, see FIG. 8) is thentightened to pivot the segments 54 and 56 about hinge 60 to fully engagekeys 82 with groove 46 in body 16 and keys 84 with groove 88 in pipeelement 90 as shown in FIG. 11. In embodiments where projections such asteeth 92 are located on keys 82 and/or 84, tightening of fastener 76also drives those projections into the body 16 and the pipe element 90within their respective grooves. As the segments 54 and 56 pivot, seal96 is compressed between the segments and the body 16 and/or the pipeelement 90 to form a fluid tight connection between the combination 10and the pipe element 90. Appropriate rotational orientation of thecombination sprinkler and coupling may be achieved by orienting thesprinkler and coupling 10 before insertion of the pipe element 90, or,it may be achieved and/or adjusted after insertion of pipe element 90but prior to fully tightening fastener 76.

The sprinkler, coupling, and combination sprinkler and couplingaccording to the invention are expected to provide a more efficientsprinkler installation with a reduced chance of damage to the sprinklerand its delicate trigger, reduce leakage attributable to the threadedconnections, make it easier to achieve the appropriate rotationalorientation, and also permit the sprinkler to be attached directly tothe pipe element without the need for an intervening fitting between thesprinkler and the pipe element or the sprinkler and a coupling.

What is claimed is:
 1. A sprinkler, comprising: a body defining a borehaving an inlet and an outlet oppositely disposed; a first arm extendingfrom said body adjacent to said outlet, said first arm having an endpositioned in spaced relation to said outlet; a closing member sealinglyengaging said outlet; a trigger positioned between said end of saidfirst arm and said closing member, said trigger permitting opening ofsaid closing member; a groove surrounding said body, said groove beingpositioned in said body between said inlet and said outlet.
 2. Thesprinkler according to claim 1, further comprising a projectionprojecting outwardly from said body, said projection being positionedbetween said groove and said outlet.
 3. The sprinkler according to claim2, wherein said projection comprises a ring extending around said body.4. The sprinkler according to claim 3, wherein a portion of said bodycomprises a cylindrical surface, said groove and said ring extendingcircumferentially around said surface.
 5. The sprinkler according toclaim 1, further comprising: a second arm extending from said bodyadjacent to said outlet, said first and second arms meeting to form anapex in spaced relation to said outlet; said trigger being positionedbetween said apex and said closing member, said trigger being heatsensitive and permitting opening of said closing member in response to aspecified temperature.
 6. The sprinkler according to claim 5, whereinsaid trigger comprises a frangible bulb.
 7. The sprinkler according toclaim 5, wherein said trigger comprises a solder link.
 8. Incombination, a sprinkler and a coupling in a pre-assembled state forjoining said sprinkler to a pipe element, said coupling comprising:first and second segments arranged end to end surrounding a centralspace, each of said segments having a first end and a second end; anadjustable attachment assembly connecting said segments to one anotherat a separation sufficient to permit insertion of said pipe element intosaid central space; first and second arcuate surfaces positioned onopposite sides of said segments and projecting toward an axis extendingthrough said central space; an annular seal located within said centralspace, said annular seal comprising first and second lobes positioned onopposite sides of said seal and extending toward said axis; saidsprinkler comprising: a body located at least partially within saidcentral space, said body comprising a bore surrounding said axis, saidbore having an inlet and an outlet oppositely disposed; a grooveextending around said body and positioned between said inlet and saidoutlet, at least a portion of said first arcuate surfaces on one side ofsaid segments engaging said groove and retaining said sprinkler to saidcoupling in said pre-assembled state.
 9. The combination according toclaim 8, further comprising a hinge pivotably connecting said first endsof each of said segments to one another.
 10. The combination accordingto claim 9, wherein said adjustable attachment assembly connects saidsecond ends of each of said segments to one another at a separationangle sufficient to permit insertion of said pipe element into saidcentral space.
 11. The combination according to claim 8, wherein saidannular seal has an outer surface sized to support said segments at saidseparation when said coupling is in said pre-assembled state.
 12. Thecombination according to claim 8, wherein said seal is compressedbetween said segments at said separation.
 13. The combination accordingto claim 8, wherein said first arcuate surfaces have a smaller radius ofcurvature than said second arcuate surfaces.
 14. The combinationaccording to claim 8, wherein said first arcuate surfaces have a radiusof curvature equal to a radius of curvature of said second arcuatesurfaces.
 15. The combination according to claim 8, wherein at least oneof said arcuate surfaces comprises at least one tooth projecting towardsaid axis.
 16. The combination according to claim 8, further comprisingat least one relief cutout in one of said arcuate surfaces, said atleast one relief cutout positioned proximate to an end of one of saidsegments and facing said central space.
 17. The combination according toclaim 9, wherein said hinge comprises: a stirrup extending from saidfirst end of said first segment; a tongue extending from said first endof said second segment, said tongue engaging said stirrup and pivotablyattaching said first and second segments to one another.
 18. Thecombination according to claim 8, wherein said attachment assemblycomprises: a first lug extending from said second end of said firstsegment; a second lug extending from said second end of said secondsegment, said first and second lugs being in facing relation with oneanother; a fastener extending between said first and second lugs foradjustably connecting said segments to one another.
 19. The combinationaccording to claim 8, further comprising a projection projectingoutwardly from said body, said projection being positioned between saidgroove and said outlet.
 20. The combination according to claim 19,wherein said projection comprises a ring extending around said body. 21.The combination according to claim 20, wherein a portion of said bodycomprises a cylindrical surface, said groove and said ring extendingcircumferentially around said surface.
 22. The combination according toclaim 8, further comprising: a first arm extending from said bodyadjacent to said outlet, said first arm having an end positioned inspaced relation to said outlet; a closing member sealingly engaging saidoutlet; a trigger positioned between said end of said first arm and saidclosing member, said trigger permitting opening of said closing member.23. The combination according to claim 22, further comprising: a secondarm extending from said body adjacent to said outlet, said first andsecond arms meeting to form an apex in spaced relation to said outlet;said trigger being positioned between said apex and said closing member,said trigger being heat sensitive and permitting opening of said closingmember in response to a specified temperature.
 24. The combinationaccording to claim 23, wherein said trigger comprises a frangible bulb.25. The combination according to claim 23, wherein said triggercomprises a solder link.
 26. A method of preparing a combinationaccording to claim 8 in a pre-assembled state; said method comprising:attaching said first ends of said first and second segments to oneanother; positioning said annular seal between said first and secondsegments; inserting said body into engagement with said first lobe;attaching said second ends of said segments to one another; andpositioning said segments at said separation.
 27. The method accordingto claim 26, further comprising: using a hinge to attach said first endsof said first and second segments; and positioning said segments at aseparation angle.
 28. The method according to claim 26, furthercomprising compressing said annular seal between said segments.
 29. Amethod of using the combination according to claim 8, the methodcomprising: inserting said pipe element into said central space oppositeto said body; engaging said pipe element with said second lobe;adjustably tightening said attachment assembly, thereby drawing saidsegments toward one another and engaging said first arcuate surfaceswith said body and said second arcuate surfaces with said pipe element.30. The method according to claim 28, further comprising engaging saidsecond arcuate surfaces with a circumferential groove on said pipeelement.
 31. In combination, a sprinkler and a coupling in apre-assembled state for joining said sprinkler to a pipe element, saidcoupling comprising: first and second segments arranged end to endsurrounding a central space, each of said segments having a first endand a second end; an adjustable attachment assembly connecting saidsecond ends of each of said segments to one another at a separationsufficient to permit insertion of said pipe element into said centralspace; first and second arcuate surfaces positioned on opposite sides ofsaid segments and projecting toward an axis extending through saidcentral space; an annular seal located within said central space, saidannular seal comprising first and second lobes positioned on oppositesides of said seal and extending toward said axis; said sprinklercomprising: a body located at least partially within said central space,said body comprising a bore surrounding said axis, said bore having aninlet and an outlet oppositely disposed, said lobe engaging andretaining said body within said central space in said pre-assembledstate; wherein said separation is sufficient to permit insertion of saidpipe element into said central space.
 32. The combination according toclaim 31, further comprising a hinge pivotably connecting said firstends of each of said segments to one another.
 33. The combinationaccording to claim 32, wherein said adjustable attachment assemblyconnects said second ends of each of said segments to one another at aseparation angle sufficient to permit insertion of said pipe elementinto said central space.
 34. The combination according to claim 31,wherein said annular seal has an outer surface sized to support saidsegments at said separation when said coupling is in said pre-assembledstate.
 35. The combination according to claim 34, wherein said seal iscompressed between said segments at said separation.
 36. The combinationaccording to claim 31, wherein said first arcuate surfaces have asmaller radius of curvature than said second arcuate surfaces.
 37. Thecombination according to claim 31, wherein said first arcuate surfaceshave a radius of curvature equal to a radius of curvature of said secondarcuate surfaces.
 38. The combination according to claim 31, wherein atleast one of said arcuate surfaces comprises at least one toothprojecting toward said axis.
 39. The combination according to claim 31,further comprising at least one relief cutout in one of said arcuatesurfaces, said at least one relief cutout positioned proximate to an endof one of said segments and facing said central space.
 40. Thecombination according to claim 32, wherein said hinge comprises: astirrup extending from said first end of said first segment; a tongueextending from said first end of said second segment, said tongueengaging said stirrup and pivotably attaching said first and secondsegments to one another.
 41. The combination according to claim 31,wherein said attachment assembly comprises: a first lug extending fromsaid second end of said first segment; a second lug extending from saidsecond end of said second segment, said first and second lugs being infacing relation with one another; a fastener extending between saidfirst and second lugs for adjustably connecting said segments to oneanother.
 42. The combination according to claim 31, further comprising agroove extending around said body and positioned between said inlet andsaid outlet, said first arcuate surfaces being engageable with saidgroove.
 43. The combination according to claim 31, further comprising aprojection projecting outwardly from said body, said projection beingpositioned between said groove and said outlet.
 44. The combinationaccording to claim 43, wherein said projection comprises a ringextending around said body.
 45. The combination according to claim 44,wherein a portion of said body comprises a cylindrical surface, saidgroove and said ring extending circumferentially around said surface.46. The combination according to claim 31, further comprising: a firstarm extending from said body adjacent to said outlet, said first armhaving an end positioned in spaced relation to said outlet; a closingmember sealingly engaging said outlet; a trigger positioned between saidend of said first arm and said closing member, said trigger permittingopening of said closing member.
 47. The combination according to claim46, further comprising: a second arm extending from said body adjacentto said outlet, said first and second arms meeting to form an apex inspaced relation to said outlet; said trigger being positioned betweensaid apex and said closing member, said trigger being heat sensitive andpermitting opening of said closing member in response to a specifiedtemperature.
 48. The combination according to claim 47, wherein saidtrigger comprises a frangible bulb.
 49. The combination according toclaim 47, wherein said trigger comprises a solder link.
 50. A method ofpreparing a combination according to claim 31 in a pre-assembled state;said method comprising: attaching said first ends of said first andsecond segments to one another; positioning said annular seal betweensaid first and second segments; inserting said body into engagement withsaid first lobe; attaching said second ends of said segments to oneanother; and positioning said segments at said separation.
 51. Themethod according to claim 50, further comprising: using a hinge toattach said first ends of said first and second segments; andpositioning said segments at a separation angle.
 52. The methodaccording to claim 50, further comprising compressing said annular sealbetween said segments.
 53. A method of using the combination accordingto claim 31, the method comprising: inserting said pipe element intosaid central space opposite to said body; adjustably tightening saidattachment assembly, thereby drawing said segments toward one anotherand engaging said first arcuate surfaces with said body and said secondarcuate surfaces with said pipe element.
 54. The method according toclaim 53, further comprising engaging said second arcuate surfaces witha circumferential groove on said pipe element.